International Literacy Day

Literacy is a cause for celebration since there are almost four billion literate people in the world. However there are many adults and children around the world, including here in the Cayman Islands, for whom literacy is still an unaccomplished goal. International Literacy Day (ILD) is observed around the world on September 8th. The special day was established in 1965 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This year ILD is placing a special focus on the important relationship between literacy and healthtwo of the main themes of Rotary Sunrises community and vocational service projects. The theme for ILD is, Literacy is the Best Remedy. UNESCO and its partners are underlining the significance of literacy for healthy societies, with a strong emphasis on epidemics and communicable diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. These are some of the worlds most important public health concerns. Cayman Bookstore Discount: The following bookstores will be offering a 10% discount on all BOOKS (not toys etc.) purchased on Monday 8th September, International Literacy Day: Book Nook: open from 9a.m. - 6p.m. Books & Books: open from 10a.m. - 9 p.m. Hobbies and Books:PiccadillyStore: open from 9a.m. - 6 p.m. and Grand Harbour Store, Books By The Bay, open from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. ROTARY SUNRISE SPONSORS AN ADULT LITERACY PILOT PROGRAM WITH THE LEADING EDGE HIGH SCHOOL. Rotary SUNRISE members have been reading with some of the youngsters at the Leading Edge High School for some time and real progress has been made because of the one to one attention. Now there is a new computer program which has taken the whole process to a new level. Called the Computer Assisted Literacy Solution - it is ideal for teaching - not only children but adults as well, even those whose first language is not English. Results from the pilot program look promising and if it works well the plan is to enlarge the program. Not only reading but math understanding can be hugely assisted by this application. Rotary SUNRISE will supply Coordinators and Facilitators and the computer program licensing. The students enjoy the experience. And Cayman will benefit.